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by Laura Thompson
Updated: Feb. 20, 2016
Originally Published: Oct. 27, 2015
I found myself in a distressing situation with my newborn. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t soothe him. His cries echoed through the house, and I felt utterly helpless, unable to bring him the calm he needed for peaceful sleep. This was not becoming easier, and I began to internalize the blame.
Taking on this guilt only intensified my struggle. Despite my constant efforts to care for him, I felt as though I was failing. I often chose to endure his cries in my arms rather than let my partner step in until I reached my breaking point.
Then, the pacifier hit the wall.
I had never experienced such frustration before, which was a clear signal that something needed to change. Shortly after this incident, I took my precious son to the pediatrician, who diagnosed him with colic. The doctor reassured me that it wasn’t my fault and there was little that could be done, sending us home to navigate the relentless crying.
While I wish I could say this diagnosis brought me great comfort as a new mother, it did help to some degree. However, what truly reassured me was the passage of time and the arrival of my second son.
My first child certainly kept us on our toes. His first year was challenging, as he taught us more about parenting than we taught him about being a child. On the other side of that struggle, we’ve all thrived. He is now an amazing young boy—sensitive, compassionate, independent, energetic, determined, funny, and intelligent. The same qualities that made him a challenging infant have blossomed into wonderful traits as he grew. Once he started walking and communicating, his demeanor shifted entirely; he learned to express his needs effectively.
The birth of my second son marked another pivotal moment for me. I was anxious about facing a similar experience, even though I knew we would persevere. Fortunately, our second child arrived with a smile and has brightened our lives ever since. He may be a handful in his own right—always seeking attention and bursting with energy—but his cheerful personality beautifully balances his brother’s more serious nature.
Vital Insight
Let me share this vital insight: the amount your baby cries is not a reflection of your capabilities as a mother.
Almost five years later, I can confidently state that the true measure of motherhood lies in how one navigates challenging situations. A crying baby does not equate to being a bad mother. Rather, it signifies an incredibly strong, patient, and loving individual. There’s nothing quite like pacing the halls with a screaming infant at 3 a.m., yet we endure it because we are remarkable mothers. For more insight on home insemination, visit this related article.
In summary, while the journey of motherhood can bring about overwhelming moments, it’s essential to understand that the challenges do not define you. Embrace the experience, and remember: you are not alone.